August 2015 Forum Focus by Sevensioux

Blandford welcomes its new Rector: Page 17

For Blandford and surrounding villages Issue No. 41

August 2015

Asda pull out but now Lidl are seeking a site in town ASDA has decided not to open a supermarket at Blandford. The store announced the decision after months of speculation and just weeks after the news that Marks & Spencer will be moving into the Langton Road Co-op premises. But there is good news for those anxious to see keener competition in the grocery sector with confirmation from Lidl that they are actively seeking a site in Blandford. Lidl's company senior consultant acquisitions Ian O'Gorman denied a rumour that the company were moving into the House of Sarunds chocolate factory in Holland Way, saying: "Unfortunately I can confirm that Lidl has not purchased the House of Sarunds, nor are we likely to in the future. The site is too small in isolation for our current requirements. "On a more positive note, I can confirm that Blandford Forum is on my live requirements for a new Lidl foodstore."

Asda's head of UK Property Communications Doug Wilson attended a meeting of Blandford Town Council on 20th July to announce the decision not to proceed with the development off Shaftesbury Lane, approved by North Dorset District Council after a major public campaign of support nearly two years ago. Mr Wilson said: "When we set our five-year strategy in 2013, we said that we will continue to build stores. But we will not build at any cost. The way customers shop has changed at a more pronounced pace in the last five years than in the previous 20 years. "Unfortunately, this means the plans we started to put in place in Blandford will not go ahead. "We would like to thank all the local people who have supported our plans. We know that people will be disappointed with our decision not to open a store here." His announcement was not To Page 2

Novelist Sarah Winman, left, signs a copy of her latest book, 'A Year of Marvellous Ways', watched by Helen Cooper of Blandford's Corn Exchange Challenge. The event was held at Beaton's Tearooms in the town's historic Greyhound House, where upstairs six newly created apartments have been on show. Full story: Page 8.

Traffic-free town centre plan proposed PROPOSALS for pedestrianisation of the Market Place have been put forward by the DT11 Forum community partnership on behalf of the Blandford Town Team and DT11 Transport Action Group (TAG). A number of options were drawn up some years ago by then local resident Simon Ible, which have been considered by the groups and discussed by the TAG, which favours partial pedestrianisation of the Market Place, allowing buses to continue to use East Street, but diverting all other traffic up Sheep Market Hill to The Close and The Plocks. Also suggested is the often considered twoway use of Whitecliff Mill Street between

Milldown Road and the doctors' surgeries. They stress that the suggestions have no authority and that all options should be examined to get a majority view from the Town Team and Blandford+ Neighbourhood Plan group before putting a proposal to the Town Council and conducting a wider public consultation. But the proposals were offered for consideration by the town council at its meeting in July and include six options, two of which involve a route skirting Bryanston Deer Park from West Street to the top of Whitecliff Mill Street using the existing access to the Deer Park Riding Stables. The Town Team is also considering proposals

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for additional fingerposts in the town. At a meeting of the Blandford+ Neighbourhood Plan steering group on 6th July, Nic Nicol, chairman of the DT11 Forum, outlined proposals for a Trailway visitor centre and cafe to be built in Langton Road car park. The scheme is part of a Trailway Economic Growth Project for which up to ÂŁ2.5 million finance is being sought through a number of funding programmes. It could include public art along the Trailway, restoration of the Langton Meadow flood arches, a railway heritage trail, cycle and scooter hire and other facilities designed to increase tourism and benefit the local economy.

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August 2015

CONTRIBUTING

CONTACTS

Forum Focus welcomes the submission of articles and reports from clubs and societies but asks that they are kept to a maximum of 200 words. If you have pictures you would like to share with us, our readers and our website visitors, please send them, with brief descriptions, by email to editor@forumfocus.co.uk. Low resolution pictures cannot be printed in the paper.

Editorial: Nicci Brown T: 01258 459346 E: editor@forumfocus.co.uk Advertising: John Stayt T: 01258 454427 E: advertising@forumfocus.co.uk Distribution: Jackie Stayt T: 01258 456999 E: distribution@forumfocus.co.uk Design: David Eidlestein T: 01258 450989 E: de@deadlines.eclipse.co.uk

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Where to find Forum Focus WE are still seeking volunteers willing to deliver on the Damory Down estate and in the Langton Road and Black Lane area. To deliver in your street or area, or act as a drop point, email distribution@forumfocus.co.uk or call 01258 456999. Other main drop points are: Blandford and Blandford St Mary: The Post Office, Library and Parish Centre in The Tabernacle, the Corn Exchange, the Spar shop in Market Place, James the Barbers and the Gorge Cafe in East Street, Blandford Museum in the Market Place, the Tourist Information Centre in West Street, James Newsagents in The Plocks, the Co-op in Salisbury Road, the 3Cs in Damory Street, the Damory Garage and One Stop in Salisbury Road, Cherry's hairdressers in Elizabeth Road, CLP stationery on Blandford Heights industrial estate, Blandford Leisure Centre in Milldown Road, the Central Shop in Heddington Drive, the Brewery Visitor Centre, and Tesco and Homebase at Stour Park. In the villages: Charlton Marshall Church Rooms and Charlton pub, Woodpecker pub at Spetisbury, True Lovers Knot and St Richard Close bus stop in Tarrant Keyneston, Langton Arms in Tarrant Monkton, Pimperne shop, the White Horse Inn at Stourpaine, Iwerne Minster post office, Child Okeford Post Office, Shillingstone Garage, Londis Shop & Royal Oak at Milborne St Andrew, The Crown at Winterborne Stickland, Post Office and Surgery, Milton Abbas, and The Cricketers at Shroton.

Diary events are updated regularly on our website so it is always worth logging on to stay up to date with whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening in the area. The website also carries additional pictures of local events.

Town councillors' anger at boundary change proposals TOWN councillors have responded angrily to a proposal from the Boundary Commission that Blandford's county council representation should be split between two wards, and that the area west of West Street and Salisbury Street should be included with the rural Winterborne division. Members commented that the proposal was designed to equalise the number of electors in each ward, but the commission was unlikely to take notice of the town council's views since it had ignored their response when the district boundaries were reviewed. But they considered that if the town had to be divided, it should be represented by two members over wards with a community of interest. Hugo Mieville said the proposal was badly flawed and would slice the Bryanston Park area off from

the rest of the town, putting a rural area together with an urban area including the local senior school. "It is obviously unsatisfactory in terms of the Boundary Commission's own stated criteria of wards as far as possible reflecting the interests and identi-

ties of local communities. In my opinion they should also reflect the boundaries applied in the district council. "There are no historic associations between this part of Blandford and the Winterbornes, as far as I am aware, to justify such a transfer."

Asda pull out of store plan From Page 1 entirely unexpected in the light of the changing fortunes and expectations of so many supermarket chains nationally, which are choosing to downsize their operations in the face of more online shopping. But it confirms the loss of a major half-million pound investment in the town centre promised as part of a package of measures agreed with the planning authority to mitigate the impact of the new store. It included potential funding for the refurbishment of the Corn Exchange, improvements to the street market and shop fronts, and the development of a town centre manager's post. Overwhelming support from residents and town and individual district councillors persuaded the planning committee to overturn the refusal recommended by planning officers. The officers' view was that it would be impossible to mitigate the impact on the town centre of the cumulative impact of a new store together with the extension to the Tesco store at Blandford St Mary, approved only eight months earlier. That proposal also promised investment in the town, but is now no longer expected to go ahead. The Shaftesbury Lane site previously chosen by Asda is now being put forward in the draft Dorset Waste Plan as one of five options for a new Blandford waste management centre (see page 3). CREAM teas are being offered every Sunday afternoon and on August Bank Holiday Monday at Tarrant Monkton & Launceston village hall in support of the maintenance fund for the village's All Saints Church. With plenty of parking available, and a child friendly environment, visitors have the choice of sitting out by the river Tarrant or inside the hall to sample homemade scones and cakes between 2.30 and 5.30pm.

August 2015

Sites identified for new waste disposal centre FIVE options have been put forward for a potential new waste management centre, incorporating household recycling and waste transfer, in Blandford. They include sites on either side of the bypass south of Shaftesbury Lane, one of which is the site for which planning permission has been granted for an Asda supermarket. Other options are east of the A354 Salisbury Road south of Pimperne, at the brewery site in Blandford St Mary, and at Holland Way by extension of the existing centre off Shaftesbury Lane. A consultation started in July and will remain open until 23rd September into the county council's Draft Waste Plan, which contains the site proposals, and Draft Mineral Sites Plan. The consultation and further information can be found online at dorsetforyou.com/mineralsand-waste or at the county council offices in Dorchester, district council offices in Blandford, or in libraries. There will also be an exhibition in

Blandford Corn Exchange on Monday 10th August from 3pm to 7pm. Further information is available by phone on 01305 228571 or email to mwdf@dorsetcc.gov.uk. A county council spokesman said: "We need to provide a modern waste management centre as the existing facility is too small. A new facility would ideally be 'split level', improving accessibility for people and enabling the separate circulation of cars from waste vehicles. "A new waste management centre would include both a household recycling centre and waste transfer facility to bulk up recyclables and other waste before they are transported onwards." Cllr Colin Jamieson, Cabinet member for economy and growth, said: "Providing modern waste management solutions in appropriate areas will reduce transportation, keeping congestion down on our busy roads. They will also help us maximise recycling and divert waste from landfill sites."

Great War transport theme for exhibition A WW1 Modes of Transport exhibition in the Corn Exchange over the first weekend in July featured all manner of transport and communications, including dogs, pigeons, horses, cars, planes and tanks. Philip Warren exhibited a selection of WW1 ships from his famous Matchstick Fleet. There were photographs of vehicles, and there was biplane and tank making for young and old. It followed a three-day exhibition in June giving a detailed insight into the role of the Royal Naval Division at Gallipoli, with testimony from some of those taking part. BLANDFORD vets David Harding, Cesar Sastre and Simon Howarth from the Damory surgery raised ÂŁ1,592 for the Margaret Green Animal Rescue with their sponsored 100-mile cycle ride.

There was a fictional silent film made in 1915 in Australia, Hero of the Dardanelles, which somewhat romantically told the story of one who had survived, and there were slide shows, presentations and a display including contemporary photographs and artefacts from the time. Much of the exhibition related to the building of the camp at Blandford, its impact on the town, and the arrival and role of the Royal Naval Division, whose men trained there, and who initially had to cope with the deep muddy conditions of the site over the winter of 1914/15. The 14-18 Group which mounted the event was congratulated on its efforts by Blandford Town Council, and Councillor Roger Carter was particularly thanked for his contribution of over 13,000 words describing the campaign.

Fun day full of smiles THE newly formed parent support group of the Blandford Children's Centre pre-school used a ÂŁ50 donation from Forum Focus to kick-start their first family fun day, held at the centre on 13th July. Poor weather forced many of the activities indoors, including the bouncy pirate castle, but a great time was had by all. Pictured at the raffle stall are Melissa Young, Katherine Dandridge, Bex Howe and Rachel Brooks, who together with Hannah Baker organised the event.

August 2015

Rotarians' pedal power BLANDFORD Stour Rotarians John Turnbull and Tony Hall cycled 180 miles between them in a recent prostate charity ride staged as part of the Fippenny Fayre in Okeford Fitzpaine. Forty-two riders took part in the Rotary International GB attempt to ride 250,000 miles on the day, and could choose to ride to the fayre, take part in a static bike challenge, or cycle as many laps of a 20-mile course around North Dorset as they could. Those taking part aged from a 76year-old for the 20-mile route, to a six-year-old recording three miles on the static bikes. The women's static ride challenge was won by Jen Barker and the men's was won by David Rose. The youngest entrant for this event was Freya Milner, aged 12. A CHARITY Golf Day at Ashley Wood Golf Club raised ÂŁ4,300 for the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital, who were out in force to support the 18 teams taking part in the 'Shotgun Start' competition. It was the first time such an event had been held for the Friends, who thanked their main sponsor, Humberts, the Golf Club, and all the local businesses and organisations giving their support. The golf was followed by lunch, an auction of promises, a raffle and prize-giving.

Unstable road reopened to ease the pressure THE A350 was closed for nearly three hours between Durweston and Shaftesbury following a single-vehicle accident involving a motorcycle which hit a fence post in North Street, Fontmell Magna. The 40-year-old rider from the Worthing area was airlifted to hospital in Southampton with lifethreatening injuries after being assessed by a paramedic attending in a rapid response vehicle. The C13 Higher Shaftesbury Road, which has been closed for over a year at Dinah's Hollow in Melbury Abbas after reports that the steep roadside slopes were unstable, was due to open just a few days later. It is now back open in an attempt to relieve the A350, and minor roads between the two, of some of the traffic which has caused significant wear and tear. The road reopened following final technical checks on traffic control on the carriageway, which has been reduced in width, and temporary traffic lights control the flow in one direction at a time through the village. Andrew Martin, the council's head of highways, said: "The short-term opening of the route will help the county's roads cope with summer traffic.

"We have reduced the width to reduce the risk to those light vehicles which will mean shuttle working through the section managed by traffic lights. It is likely there may be some delays if the traffic volumes increase." Trees and vegetation have been trimmed to reduce the risk to traffic, water-filled barriers have been put in place to guide vehicles away from the unstable slope, and ducts and cabling installed for the traffic lights. Prior to reopening, the road was also swept and hydro-blasted to ensure that the surface was clear of debris and offered a good surface for drivers. CCTV cameras were fitted to monitor the road and allow remote adjustment of the signals. The county council is continuing to work with the local community with plans to resolve the longterm stability of the slopes. PLANNING permission has been granted by North Dorset District Council for an internal road layout at the five-day Great Dorset Steam Fair, opening on 2nd September, designed to combat the problems last year when heavy rain resulted in the site at Tarrant Hinton becoming a mud bath.

August 2015

Charity windfalls from marathon runner RACHEL Goodfellow's epic five-marathon run in support of the Hidden Needs Trust for local Opportunity Groups and special needs children reached Blandford where she prepared for the last two legs of her journey through Dorset and back to Trent from where she had started. She had covered nearly two-thirds of her run and walk of over 200 miles which had included 90 miles of coastal path, with stops and fundraising events at Evershot, Beaminster, Lyme Regis, West Bay, Abbotsbury, Chesil Beach, Portland, Weymouth, Kingston, Swanage, Bridport, Christchurch and Cranborne. In Blandford she was met by members of the Blandford Opportunity Group, the Mayor Councillor Steve Hitchings and town crier Jean Wells. She later headed, via Milton Abbas, to Dorchester for lunch with the Dorchester Opportunity Group families.

Rachel Goodfellow and her support driver Jenny Devitt of Abbey FM at the Crown Hotel in Blandford with Mayor of Blandford Steve Hitchings, town crier Jean Wells, and Colin Stevens, chairman, Sharon Kevern and members of the Blandford Opportunity Group.

Historic town pub could be turned into homes THE owner of the Railway Hotel in Oakfield Street, Blandford, has submitted plans for the conversion of the historic pub into residential accommodation after attempts to sell the premises failed. Nigel Jones's application to North Dorset District Council is for three flats in the main building, demolition of outbuildings at the rear, a rear extension creating a twobedroom townhouse and conversion of the former coach house (skittle alley) into a two-bedroom mews cottage. The design and access statement by architects Williams Lester, submitted with the application, says the scheme will enable regeneration of a site that has become unviable and neglected, but will carefully retain the distinctive Victorian front facade dating back to the hotel's heyday catering for rail travellers in the years the Somerset & Dorset railway ran through the town. It stresses that the interior has been much altered, the building subject to extensive unsympathetic additions, and the pub, built in around 1865 at the time of the opening of the station, is now out

of keeping with its surroundings in the conservation area. "Today the street has the feel of a quiet backwater - the imposing and pleasing high Victorian facade of the former hotel, which now operates as a public house, seems somewhat incongruous to its location. "Many of the properties in the immediate environs, although attractive and distinctly Victorian, are in need of attention, and the site of the former station was the subject of an unattractive development in the 1970s." They point out the perilous state of the adjacent building, and the derelict vacant plot to the north for which planning permission has now been granted for residential development. "The application scheme presents an opportunity to regenerate an important site within the conservation area in a sensitive and appropriate manner. "The proposed residential conversion is respectful of the heritage status of one of Blandford's more significant Victorian buildings and its unique connection with the town's now long lost railway."

August 2015

Public asked about changes to local plan

Above: Peter and Yo Beech with their winning entry in the Blackmore Vale Championship. Above right: Cyril Hovard with the anniversary vase which was auctioned in celebration of his 90th birthday.

Cyril's birthday celebrated in bloom BLANDFORD and District Horticultural Society celebrated the 90th birthday of its long-serving secretary Cyril Hovard at its 20th anniversary annual sweet pea and rose show, staged at the Anne Biddlecombe Hall in Tarrant Keyneston. A special anniversary class,

sponsored by Mr Hovard, featured the 'Anniversary' sweet pea, and was won by Dave Manston, winner in three other classes. There was also a silent auction for a giant anniversary bowl filled with the blooms. The best vase of sweet peas in the show was judged by Mary

and Jim McDonald of Fordingbridge to be that of Peter and Yo Beech, who also for the second year running won the Ivy Miles Shield for the Blackmore Vale Championship display of three vases containing nine stems of three separate cultivars. The rose classes were judged by Ron Benfield of Iwerne Minster, and the best vase award went for the third year running to Tony Ashford, who also won the Joyce Potter Rose Bowl for six large blooms and the miniature class. The most fragrant rose, judged by visitors and fellow exhibitors, was that of Mary Gillingham. Other leading prizewinners in the sweet pea classes were John Gillingham and Dave and June Goddard, and in the rose classes Dave Eastment, Alan Newman, Helen Sinnett and Susan Billington.

A PUBLIC consultation was due to start in late July and run until mid-September into modifications proposed to the North Dorset Local Plan following the examination in public in March. For Blandford those modifications include the recognition that new or expanded health facilities are required and commitment to work to ensure sites are identified. They also include statements that the neighbourhood plan can include additional greenfield sites beyond the bypass for development, the existing primary schools may need to be extended or a new two-form entry primary school provided, and that development at Lower Bryanston Farm should only be allowed once bat mitigation measures have been put in place. Town centre regeneration measures include not only retail and commercial, but also community, leisure and recreation uses. Letters about the consultation will be sent to known interested parties, but details will also be available in libraries and council offices, and on the local authority website at dorsetforyou.com/planning/northdorset/planning-policy. A GRANT of nearly ÂŁ2,000 has been awarded to mental health charity Positive Approach by Blandford Forum Town Council to upgrade the kitchen at their new premises and charity shop in the Anchor Gateway.

Alderman honour for pair TWO former local district councillors have been given the title of honorary alderman of North Dorset District Council in recognition of their service. The nomination for Lt-Col Michael Oliver, member for Cranborne Chase ward from 1991 to 2015 and chairman of council for a total of seven years between 1999 and 2013, was seconded by Councillor Deirdre Skipwith. She highlighted also his chairmanship of the governors of Pimperne Primary School and membership of Pimperne Parish Council. Councillor Michael Roake seconded a posthumous nomination for the late Councillor Richard Moyle, member for Riversdale from 1999 to 2015. He said that as chairman of the best value and review sub-committees and cabinet member, Mr Roake had helped reform how the council undertook its functions, and his experience and commitment to the council and the service of his parishioners would be missed.

August 2015

Floral designs add sparkle to the gardens

Elizabeth Pickering, left, and visitors with her bird table decorated with sunflowers.

VISITORS to Blandford's already floral Cheshire Cat hanging from the tree. Woodhouse Gardens found it bathed in Mrs Berridge said: "We were talking sunshine and full of a veritable treasure about how we might hold our annual trove of blooms in sometimes hidden event this year, and our vice-chairman arrangements created by members of Jean Freak suggested the Woodhouse Blandford Floral Art Society. Gardens. They had taken the brave decision to "The town council was delighted to move away from their annual tea party allow us to host the event here, and in the garden of one of their members to their groundsman John has been really risk the British climate with a show open helpful. The gardens themselves are to the public, who arrived in large numlooking so lovely thanks to the council bers to admire the imaginative displays. staff, and we have just added to them." They ranged from the hedgehogs and The afternoon was made complete with violin decorated by committee member the serving of cream teas in the garLyn Coubrough, to a gardener's spade dens pavilion. complete with robin by chairman Iris Parker, and a bird table with sunflowers by committee member Elizabeth Pickering. The 'piece de resistance' was the 'Alice in Wonderland' corner developed by secretary Diana Berridge in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the penning by Charles Dodgson (Lewis Carroll) of the classic tale, with Alice looking into the looking glass, Tweedledum, Tweedledee, a pack of Members of Blandford Floral Art Society serve up cream teas cards, painted roses, a for visitors to the Woodhouse Gardens. giant tea cup and a

August 2015

Rothermere family snap up Crown Meadows land THE sale by the Crown Estate of its Bryanston lands, including the Blandford Crown Meadows and deer park, for an undisclosed sum - to a company held on behalf of the Viscount Rothermere and his son, the Hon Vere Harmsworth - has raised speculation over the purchasers' plans for development. Crown Estates Communications manager Nic Clarke confirmed that both development sites and 40 properties including assured shorthold tenancies and secure tenancies in Bryanston and Durweston, were included in the sale, together with 14 farm tenancies.

Viscount Rothermere's acquisition, which is due to be completed in September, is part of his family's long-term strategy to diversify its investment holdings. Ken Jones, director of the rural and coastal portfolio for the Crown Estates, said: "Sales such as this provide our business with important capital for investment across our key sectors." He said the proceeds would be invested in the active management of significant rural holdings and investment in shopping parks, retail and business destinations in London's West End, and the offshore energy sector.

Good neighbours sought SPECTRUM Housing Group is seeking nominations for a new Good Neighbour award to residents of their properties making an important contribution to their neighbours and communities through unpaid work. Nominations close on 31st August in two categories, for those aged 25 or over and those under 25. The winners will receive ÂŁ50 in shopping vouchers and a trophy presented by Jewson, Spectrum's supplier and sponsor of the competition. To make a nomination, contact Spectrum's Resident Network Team on 01983 824262, email jo.winch@spectrumhousing.co.uk or download a nomination form from the website spectrumhousing.co.uk.

TWO new Cub leaders were sworn in by group Scout leader Gary Rice at a fun day hosted at the Blandford Scout Headquarters in Eagle House Gardens. The event, organised jointly by the Scouts, Blandford Rotary and the Blandford Railway Club, which is now based in the Scouts' building, featured a bouncy castle, sumo wrestling, a bungee run and coconut shy, a raffle, cakes and refreshments, and there was an opportunity to see the Railway Club's model rail layouts and plans.

Historic new chapter at Greyhound House A CHANCE to meet the new owner of the refurbished Greyhound House is offered by the Corn Exchange Challenge when it hosts another book launch at Beatons Tearooms, located on the ground floor, on Sunday 2nd August. Eve Bonham, not always a writer, but a former business woman of the year, the first female auctioneer at Bonhams and a competitive yachtswoman, as well as a local resident, will be signing copies of her third novel, 'The Lost Journey Homeward', and talking about her journey into writing.

The book launch, starting at 4.30pm, follows that last month featuring Sarah Winman, who gave a captivating introduction to her second novel 'A Year of Marvellous Ways', a story of resolution and resolve in an unlikely friendship. But Sarah also gave an insight into the difference between penning a debut novel and writing the next with the benefit of the experience of the first. The newly refurbished Greyhound House was opened to the public when Symonds and Sampson hosted a viewing evening of the six apartments to let in the Grade I listed property. One of the most important buildings in the town, it has been carefully restored into six apartments arranged over the first and second floors above the two ground-floor retail units. Rachael James, head of lettings for the company, said: "The attention to detail in the refurbishment has been incredible. Typical character features found in a Georgian building include high ornate plasterwork ceilings, large windows, and sweeping staircases, yet each apartment has been fitted with high-quality fixtures, fittings and appliances, some in the most unexpected of places."

August 2015

Charity rallying duo make it to the finish

Artist Geoff Barnes at work during the United Reformed Church's floral, art and photography festival.

Church stages a variety show VISITORS to a three-day flower, art and photography festival at the United Reformed Church found the building decorated with floral art exhibits, the organ playing and an artist at work. In the church hall next door they could enjoy light lunches and cream teas, and a stall in support of Julia's House children's hospice. There was a similar theme in Tarrant Gunville village hall, when Margaret Morgan gave a floral art demonstration.

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THE 'Dukes of Dorset', Bob Blackstock and Dave Hiscock of Charlton Marshall, put on a fine display in the 2015 Monte Carlo or Bust rally with 21 of the 32 challenges completed in three days and received finishers' medals. The rally began in Belgium on the anniversary of D-Day. The duo lined up in dinner suits alongside 80 other dressed-up cars and crews prepared to travel 350 miles through Luxembourg and France to Freiburg in Germany. The first day's challenge was to take 16 photographs, including a Dutchman washing the windscreen and a Frenchman armwrestling on the boot. They drove 300 miles through Switzerland on day two with 16 items to collect, including application forms and a business card. They then progressed 11 miles through St Gotthard tunnel to Lake Como in Italy. With Monte Carlo 250 miles away, the heat was on. They

stopped frequently to recharge the cooling system of their 23year-old Toyota Celica, but Bob and Dave crossed the finish line in Casino Square at four in the afternoon. They then enjoyed a luxury cruise around the Monaco F1 Grand Prix Circuit. Dave's driving raised ÂŁ400 for Blandford Cupola Project and Bob raised over ÂŁ1,200 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society. BLANDFORD's new 'Out and About' guide, published by the Tourist Information Centre with assistance from Blandford Town Council and North Dorset District Council, is now available free of charge from the TIC office in West Street and from the Town Council offices in Church Lane.

August 2015

Money for the hospice A FUN day with crafts and music at the Blandford Constitutional Club raised nearly £300 for Julia's House children's hospice. Catherine Miller, who together with Sue Worth regularly organise charity events, said: "The final count was £291.69, which was a great result, and just demonstrates the generosity of those who donated. "The stalwart support from the staff of the Con Club was an integral part of the success of the afternoon. And of course, we could not have done it without the musicians and their various and valued talents. Our thanks also to the stallholders who added to the proceedings." The event competed with poor weather conditions as well as the Wimbledon Men's Final, and attendance was not as high as the event held last year for the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust, with outdoor attractions given little support. But inside the club, musical entertainment provided free of charge included bands the Replicas and the Bugattis, the Moore family, and a boogie woogie Organisers Catherine Miller and Sue Worth at the raffle stall. session.

More solar farms likely MORE solar farms are in the pipeline in the DT11 area. North Dorset District Council has been asked for an environmental impact screening assessment for a 12-hectare site near Winterborne Zelston south of the A31 between Kiddles Farm and the Botany Bay pub. A consultation took place in July into British Solar Renewables' proposals for a farm at the Down House, Winterborne Stickland. Revised plans for a solar farm at Mapperton were due to be considered by East Dorset District Council on 21st July, having been deferred from June for a site meeting.

Wellbeing Centre opens at Blandford

Patients, family members, carers, staff and friends of Weldmar Hospicecare at the opening of the new Wellbeing Centre at Blandford Community Hospital.

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Blandford St Mary show, fete & dog show BLANDFORD St Mary celebrates the 70th anniversary of its annual horticultural and craft competitions with a fete and dog show on Sunday 16th August in the wonderful grounds of the Manor House in Lower Blandford St Mary. Families, toddlers and teens, plus four-legged friends, are invited to this traditional but very special anniversary village occasion, proceeds from which will go to the beautiful village church and local charities. The gardens, often open for the National Gardens Scheme with three acres of inspired planting including fruit and vegetables, herbaceous borders and wonderful roses, will be available for exploration at leisure. There will also be stalls, games, face painting and a raffle featuring valuable prizes. The marquees will be filled with displays of vegetables, fruit, flowers, flower arranging, art, crafts, cookery skills, photography and children's entries in the show classes, and first timers are especially welcome to 'have-a-go' with special novice vegetable and flower arranging sections.

Schedules are available in Blandford Library, TIC and at the Forum Café, from the Hall and Woodhouse Wine Shop and Stour Inn in Blandford St Mary and neighbouring village shops and pubs, or by contacting the organisers at bsmvillage@gmail.com. Entry forms can be submitted until 6pm on 14th August. Dogs and their owners will have a choice of seven classes in the dog show in a separate arena. Homemade cream teas and cakes and a Pimms bar will offer refreshment on the lawns, with easy listening music provided by 'Just Mark'. The 'Super Spud' unearthing, a competition to grow the heaviest crop of potato in a container, takes place at 3pm, followed by the presentation of prizes and auction of produce. Gates open 1pm, and there is extensive free parking. For updates and more information see blandfordstmary.wordpress.com.

WELDMAR Hospicecare celebrated the opening of their new Wellbeing Centre at Blandford Community Hospital, marking the launch of a new Wellbeing Service available for patients and their families and carers across north, south and west of Dorset. The centre is open every Thursday from 10.30am to 3pm in the newly opened Garden Room for patients living with a life-limiting illness. It offers a day out from home with a wide range of activities including arts and crafts, a reading group, relaxation, complementary therapies and a chance to meet new friends. Darren Wickwar, Matron at Blandford Community Hospital, said: "Hosting the Weldmar Wellbeing Centre is a great opportunity for partnership working to support highquality care and to share good practice." Verity McLelland, Weldmar's Wellbeing Centre Lead for North Dorset, said: "We have a wonderful team of staff and volunteers and this marks the beginning of an exciting time for Weldmar in north Dorset as we develop and expand the range of services for patients and their families."

August 2015

Academy expansion revealed THE Performing Arts Theatre Academy have announced that next year they will partnering with Forum Drama to put on two classic children's tales, 'The Railway Children' and 'The Wind in the Willows'. One production is scheduled for March 2016, and the other for the following August. The academy has also announced a new set of classes for 'Tiny Performers' which will be starting this September in the Parish Centre on Saturday mornings, and will include baby sensory and development for babies of six weeks plus, and Drama Story Time for ages up to five. Academy DANCE with Baby Ballet is an introductory to dance, Pre-Primary and Primary Ballet, Tap and Modern Jazz dance. Principal Rebecca Hollands said: "This is the beginning of an expansion of the academy to provide students a full and wellrounded performance education. We are so lucky to have the very talented Zoe Mitchener joining the PATA team and cannot wait for her to start teaching the Tiny Performers, Pre-Primary and Primary dance classes." Children attending the recent Princess Workshop had a fantastic time meeting Queen Elsa and Princess Anna and spending a morning singing and learning how to be princesses. The next workshop is 26-28th August, with Squire Stage Combat, Wicked and Pop Stars days. For further information call Rebecca Hollands on 07920 75579, email thepatheatreacademy@gmail.com or see the website thepatheatreacademy.uk, or find them on Facebook and Twitter.

The 3 Peaks team: CM Steve Hitchings, WM Steve Garbutt, FF Dan Winstanley, FF Chris Owen, FF Rob Smith, FF Luke Stacey, Jason Winslow (brother in law of CM Plumley) and CM James Plumley.

Firefighters rise to the challenge A TEAM of firefighters from Blandford Fire Station made the 530-mile trip to Fort William in Scotland for the start of the Fire Service 3 Peaks Challenge. They set off to the summit of Ben Nevis, meeting low cloud and in places three feet of snow. After reaching the summit they descended in good time, completing the climb in 3 hours 57 minutes. A six-hour journey through the night brought them to Wasdale in the Lake District for the toughest climb of Scafell Pike in low cloud, pouring rain, cold wind and in places poor visibility, reaching the summit and back in 3 hours 45 minutes. Next came the five-hour journey down the M6 to Snowdonia National Park where from PenY-Pass just outside Llanberis they proceeded up the Pyg Track, minus one injured team member left on the minibus, and completed the climb in 1 hour 26 minutes to finish the challenge. The total time of 20 hours 8 minutes achieved the silver medal, missing out on the gold medal by

Recognition for museum BLANDFORD Fashion Museum is celebrating the award of Full Accreditation by the Arts Council England, acknowledging sound practice in management, and the quality of care given to their collections, displays and visitors. Museum administrator and trustee Gordon Boutelle said: "It is a great distinction and demonstrates that through the efforts of everyone involved in the museum, nationally recognised standards have been achieved." The museum trustees are seeking an assistant administrator and an assistant treasurer. Anyone interested in volunteering for either role should contact the museum on 01258 453006.

only 8 minutes. Firefighter Rob Smith said: "This was a great team effort and achievement, finishing seventh out of the 24 teams entered, and the fifth quickest team up both Ben Nevis and Snowdon, beaten only by the fell running teams.

We would like to thank everyone for their support throughout the challenge." The team, which raised ÂŁ525 in sponsorship and a car wash in May for the Firefighters' charity, is aiming to get back together in 2016 and achieve the gold medal.

August 2015

Eyesore of the month?

Darren Gonthier, left, and Daz Burns with the ballot box for the Downlands School painting competition.

Legion flies the flags BLANDFORD Royal British Legion put out the flags for Armed Forces Day on 27th June with an open day at the club in Church Lane, including live music, barbecue, children's entertainment and a display of 105 themed paintings and drawings from Downlands Primary School on Blandford Camp. Votes were taken for the best painting in three age groups, with prizes awarded to the winners, and the overall winner was Leona, aged 10, with her picture 'Back Together'. Other group winners were Zoe, aged nine, and Haydn, aged eight. The top four in each age group will be published in a 2016 calendar which will be going on sale in support of the Poppy Appeal. All the paintings will be mounted in an album to be kept for display at the Legion, and all those taking part have been presented with certificates of appreciation and a pack of colouring pencils. More pictures on the Forum Focus website and on the club's Facebook page.

CONCERN was raised some months ago by one of Blandford's Freemen of the town, Heather Bracewell, at the unloved state of this corner at the junction of Jubilee Way and Milldown Road, which at the time of going to press had remained uncut for the whole of the summer. It is one of a number of such 'unadopted' patches of land for which no-one appears to be prepared to take responsibility, including that between the Stour Inn and Dorchester Hill in Blandford St Mary. It was cut back in the first week of July only after staff at the pub reported to the highway authority that it was a hazard, blocking motorists' view of approaching traffic - but were told it was not

Dorset County Council's responsibility. So action CAN be taken if there are road safety concerns - a report online to dorsetforyou.com can frequently result in repairs to footpath and highway problems such as potholes and overgrown trees and hedges - but what can be done if a verge grows wild and just looks messy?

Brewery development explained REVISED plans for the redevelopment of Hall & Woodhouse's brewery site in Blandford St Mary were displayed at the Crown Hotel on 17th July. Property manager Liz Abrahams said they were taking the opportunity to explain why the scheme had been delayed, and how it had become a residential development only, since warehouses on the site which had been included ten years ago were now fully leased and not in need of replacement with smaller business units.

August 2015

Young people celebrate their new skills YOUNG people testified, at a presentation at Blandford Fire Station, how a 12-week programme with The Princes Trust had helped them change their lives. Guests and family members of the 16- to 25-year-olds, mostly from Blandford and the surrounding area, learnt of their week-long Dartmoor expedition, work placements and projects which had given them confidence and raised their expectations. The youngsters described their experience on work placements with organisations including Treads youth advice centre, where the whole team had worked jointly on a project to give the centre a much-needed facelift, and with the Blandford Museum, a funeral parlour, a day centre for the elderly, a bike shop, a florist shop and a dog boarding kennels. They also helped out at the Women's Refuge, food bank, Poole Hospital and Whitecliffe Nursing Home. Certificates in employment, teamwork and community skills were presented to each of the young people and team coaches, and a special certificate was presented to Zeb Harris of Sixpenny Handley for his commitment and 100 per cent attendance. The presentation was attended by the Mayor of Blandford, Councillor Steve Hitchings, the High Sheriff, Jennifer Coombs, and the deputy Lord Lieutenant, Angela Dupont. For more information on The Princes Trust and its work to help young people, see princes-trust.org.uk.

Youngsters attending the development programme with The Princes Trust outside Blandford Fire Station, with left, Mayor of Blandford Steve Hitchings, second from left the Deputy Lord Lieutenant Angela Dupont, third from right, the High Sheriff Jennifer Coombs, and right, team leader Tim Higgins.

Co-op wall sculpture explained at last BLANDFORD & District Civic Society have, in the nick of time before the closure of the Co-op in Langton car park, erected a plaque explaining the significance of the sculpture on the wall of the building. Chairman Terence Dear said: "Our project officer Alan Dymond sought permission to fix the sign on the wall from the Co-op before the sale to Marks & Spencer was agreed. So many people look at the plaque and wonder why it is there - including the team from Marks & Spencer who came down to inspect the building." The plaque explains that the sculpture, by Richard Gransby, commemorates the railway which ran close to the spot for over 100 years and incorporates scenes from Burnham Harbour in

Somerset to Blandford. They include a ship in the harbour and dockside crane, an English Kings Stag brick, ears of corn, sheep, a railway signal, the station water tower and platform canopy, Blandford Town Hall, church tower and Wimborne Road viaduct and the Pines Express. The Co-op store closed, as planned, on 4th July, and the following week equipment was removed in readiness for the occupation by Marks & Spencer, who have yet to confirm an opening date, but indicated that it would be later this year. The Blandford + Neighbourhood Plan steering group has already established contact with the company with a view to discussing the future of the Langton site and its role in the regeneration of the town centre.

The sculpture on the wall of the former Co-op with an explanatory plaque.

Footpath extension work WORK was due to start on 20th July to extend the shared footpath and cycleway along Black Lane, Blandford, and is due to be completed by the end of the summer school holidays. It is the second phase in the provision of a safer route to Archbishop Wake Primary School, financed from developer contributions from the Diamond Way housing scheme. It will include widening the footpath into the verge and tactile paving at road junctions to just beyond Downside Close where a dropped kerb will allow cyclists to rejoin the carriageway.

The View from the Hill by George Hosford More from George on viewfromthehill.org.uk he poppy fields that hit the national headlines early in July have been identified as belonging to none other than our 'View from the Hill' correspondent George Hosford. Grown not for opium but for medicinal purposes, they provide medical morphine for hospitals throughout the UK, and unlike some other crops, thrive on Dorset's chalk soils. George takes up the story:

The dry weather throughout much of May and most of

FARMING June and July to date have suited some of our crops, especially the poppies at Thornicombe, by keeping disease at bay, although I have my doubts whether others will make it to harvest without suffering from the lack of moisture. The poppies flowered for an intense few days a month ago, but didn't fail to catch the eye of itinerant photographers for miles around. Placing them by a main road was asking for Poppies in bloom at Thornicombe. attention, I suppose. The short flowering perigrass with straw in the field od will hopefully mean that they once we have cut some. will ripen evenly. Following petal But the lovely summer weather fall they now look like a huge has led to a terrific show of wild area of little people standing flowers on the downland, in the shoulder to shoulder from one woods, on the verges of the side of the field to the other. lanes and in the headland marGrass is becoming a rare comgins around most of our arable modity due to the lack of rain. fields, encouraging a great turnWe are moving the cows and out of butterflies and bumble calves from field to field ever bees, among many other more frequently as they run out species which enjoy a plentiful of grub and complain loudly that and varied supply of nectar. they are hungry. Much more of Knapweed is flowering strongly, this and we will have to supplepyramid orchid, yarrow, scabiment the brown and shrivelling ous, birdsfoot trefoil, ladies bed-

August 2015

straw, wild carrot, chicory, and many others are contributing to the colour and diversity currently on show (see many on the website at viewfromthehill.org.uk). A preponderance of foxes around the farmyard has meant that our unfortunate chickens have had to be confined to the hen house for the last month. A plan is in hand to create a summer residence on wheels that will enable the hens to stay in a safely (electrically) fenced area during the summer in the future.

SCHOOLS

August 2015

Bryanston hosts sport

Okeford Fitzpaine Primary children with their 'guardians of the trees'.

Report crowns a great year FOLLOWING a very successful Ofsted inspection at the end of January, Okeford Fitzpaine School was delighted to achieve 'good' in all areas in its Church SIAMs inspection. Highlights of the report, which can be downloaded from the school website okeford.dorset.sch.uk, included the school playing a central role in the life of the community, pupils making good progress from their starting points and parents overwhelmingly supportive of the school. Headteacher Alan Frame said: "It has been a great year for the school with amazing 200-year celebrations in the autumn term, a

fabulous Ofsted result in the spring term and now a fantastic result in our SIAMs inspection in the summer term. This result is a real team effort and I would like to thank all who help and work at the school." He was particularly pleased at comments on the report, stating: "The school's self-evaluation is perceptive and accurate and there is a vision for the future direction of the school. The governing body is very effective and has steered the school well in difficult times." Children recently spent an 'Environment Day' outdoors and welcomed Hannah from Green Mash Ed, who taught them about

BLANDFORD Town Council and Royal British Legion will be commemorating the 70th anniversary of Victory over Japan on Saturday 15th August outside Legion House in Church Lane, Blandford. They will be participating in the national two-minute silence which will be observed at 2pm, and members of the public are invited to join the Legion, town councillors and military representatives for refreshments in Legion House afterwards.

'Bogarts' - secret tree guardians. Pupils made their own out of clay, and also made dream catchers, bird feeders and built a 5-star bug hotel in the school grounds, using iPads to photograph and record their activities.

A TREMENDOUS celebration of school sport took place at Bryanston School with the Level 3 Dorset School Games. Bryanston kindly make their facilities available for the event which enables nearly 1,500 young athletes and leaders to take part in a huge range of sports. Pupils from 90 schools competed in a variety of sports including athletics, rowing and equestrian. Sprinter and bobsleigher Craig Pickering, who is one of only eight British athletes ever to be selected for both a summer and winter Olympics, gave a motivational speech during the opening ceremony to help inspire the school pupils. The event was the culmination of many Level 1 and 2 events across the county. Teachers, parents, school games organisers, national governing bodies, local clubs and coaches were thanked for the expertise and time they devoted to give the young athletes a fantastic experience.

August 2015

Tea cheers for villagers LEADEN skies turned into a glorious afternoon for the third Tea on the Lawn fund-raising event at Bryanston. More than 60 people from the village and beyond enjoyed afternoon tea, cake and lively conversation, with all proceeds going to support the bi-monthly Bryanston Newsletter delivered free to all homes in the parish. Bryanston's cake-making skills once again came to the fore, and the Bryanston Village Association thanked everyone who made it such a roaring success. A scene from The Blandford School's production of FAME The Musical at the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne.

Fame is the name of the game for TBS students NEAR sell-out performances of The Blandford School's production of FAME The Musical wowed the audiences at the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne in the second week of July. It was a show full of dance and music which gave many the chance to shine in the story of relationships in a performing arts school. Among the cast were Adam Dando, playing Schlomo Metzenbaum, the classical musician who sets up the rock band, and Emma Wright, the drummer Grace 'Lambchops' Lamb. Frankie Yeatman and Rachel Jennings, who will be remembered respectively for their Eponine and Cosette in last year's Les Miserables, played Carmen, the fame-obsessed dancer, and the shy Serena. Rory Shafford played dancer Jack, Hannah Stevens the

deceptive Iris, Bethan Amey, playing the weight-losing dancer and singer Mabel, and Luke Panchaud the comedian of the class, Joe Vegas. Ellie Failes played the strict English teacher Esther Sherman, Georgie Duckworth the dance teacher Greta Bell, Moriom Karim the music teacher with a dislike of rock and roll Mrs Scheinkopf, and Ciaran Myers drama teacher Mr Myers. Many of the students, from years 9 to 13, have worked with Studio B, the Janet Knight School of Dance, and in other school and local productions, and have ambitions for a career in performance, musical theatre, television or the entertainment industry. The four performances included a Wednesday matinee to which all students were invited by the performing arts department. See more pictures on our website.

Artists' work on show BLANDFORD Art Society's open exhibition at the Corn Exchange from 24th to 29th August will reflect the broad range of work produced in many styles and media by local artists. The Society prides itself on being able to make submission of works as convenient as possible for artists. Selection for hanging is always a challenge due to the high quality of work, but a bonus again this year for exhibiting artists and visitors will be the display of all submitted works whether or not hung in the main gallery space. The Society welcomes new members, and anyone joining at the exhibition, open 10am to 5pm (4pm on Saturday) is being offered 50 per cent off this year's subscription. Application forms will be available on the day or can be downloaded from the website, blandfordartsociety.weebly.com.

August 2015

Warm welcome for the new Rector THE new Rector of Blandford and Langton Long, the Rev Jonathan Triffitt, was welcomed to his new parish at an installation service in the church on 9th July, followed by a social evening in the parish centre. A packed congregation was welcomed by the Rural Dean of Milton and Blandford, the Rev John Simmons. The service was led by the Bishop of Salisbury, the Rt Rev Nicholas Holtam who heard Mr Triffitt's affirmation and presented him with the licence to serve the two parishes and to serve as assistant Rural Dean of Milton & Blandford. Participating in the service were lay members of the church, including churchwardens Sara Loch and Gail del Pinto, who were thanked by Mr Triffitt for all the responsibility they and other lay members had assumed during the interregnum.

Mr Triffitt has arrived in Blandford just in time to see the start of the next repair phase of the ongoing Cupola Project, for which scaffolding is due to go up in the first week of August for work on the church tower. The week before, the tower had been draped with a giant 140-foot scarf knitted over the past 18 months by members of the church's knitting and craft groups, AllSorts and Simply Sew, in celebration of Heritage Lottery funding award for its repair, and to demonstrate the care that is being taken of the Grade The new Rector of I listed building. Blandford and Langton Scarves were also Long, the Rev Jonathan draped around one Triffit, right, with the of the churchyard Bishop of Salisbury the memorials, and the Rt Rev Nicholas Holtam. fire monument.

Customers of the Wheatsheaf who have pledged to fight to save the pub, with (right) Rhia Jones, who is spearheading the campaign.

Pub rescue begins A FIGHTING fund has been set up by customers of the Wheatsheaf in Albert Street, Blandford, following its listing as an asset of community value and the owner's decision to put it on the market. The Friends of the Wheatsheaf have registered as a limited company and formally expressed their intention to exercise their right to bid for the pub, which has been valued at around ÂŁ300,000. They are now putting together a business and funding plan. They have been offered the assistance of the group in Gussage St Michael which has already undertaken a similar exercise to bid for the Drovers pub in their village, for which a change of use application was refused by East Dorset planners last month. At a meeting of supporters at the pub early in July a number of people pledged their involvement in the campaign and promises

were made of more than ÂŁ200 towards the costs. They also considered uses to which the premises might be put as a community pub, such as a venue for a mother and toddler group, coffee shop, and letting rooms. Those attending included Paul Methven, pub protection officer with CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, and others with experience of running pubs. A viability survey was carried out at the end of July with local residents who were asked to put forward other ideas for facilities which could be offered if the premises were retained as a community pub, and to make further donations to the fund. Spokesman for the Friends of the Wheatsheaf, Rhia Jones, said: "We'd like to give a big thank you to everyone who came to the meeting or couldn't make it but have shared their thoughts with us."

Letters to the Editor

LETTERS Do write to Forum Focus if there is something you'd like to comment on or share with other readers. Email your letter, which should be as brief as possible, to: editor@forumfocus.co.uk. Alternatively, you can call 01258 459346 or deliver your letter by post or by hand to: Forum Focus, c/o

August 2015 Colin's Community Club, 49 Damory Street, Blandford DT11 7HD. Please mark your letter 'for publication' and remember to include your address, which will not be used in full. Forum Focus reserves the right to shorten or edit letters in the interests of clarity, brevity and style.

M&S arrival prompts shops debate THE only rational explanation for Marks & Spencer sparking a wave of delight is that people have been tunnelling from communist Albania and only heard wild tales of its luxury and excess. Most of us go there to buy medium-quality underwear and sandwiches on a short-cut to the bus stop. Councillor Butler speaks for the poorer constituent in telling us that they would have preferred something they can afford to shop in - but it is too bad because she is in favour of going up-market. Councillor John Stayt informs us that, contrary to popular opinion, there is life beyond Asda and Lidl. Is this the popular opinion he is supposed to represent, who will be given the 'aspiration' that will come as a comfort when they

have no money left after paying their council tax? We hear from Blandford TIC who inform us that this will bring some class - so far removed from the charity shops, estate agents and cafĂŠs too. They really aren't out to make any friends either. Then we have our first contribution from Ros Nelmes from the Town Team who tactfully says it will 'balance things out a bit'. As far as I can see the Town Team are self-appointed connoisseurs whom we later learn have quite a bit more balancing out they wish to foist upon us by telling us all what colours to paint our front doors and shop fronts. Naming and shaming the Chinese takeaway and the Indian restaurant, The Bay Leaf, for its appalling yellow and 'hideous' orange, for me, is the truly appalling thing.

I for one greatly enjoy colours which I find quite poetic against a bleak winter sky. The fact is that Georgian paints were as bright as they could be but were forced to include iron oxide which deadens the colour. If they had had the colours we have now they certainly would have used them. Who are these people who go into waves of delight over a Marks & Spencer and want to institute some kind of Farrow and Ball fascism on the town? From my experience they do not represent the vast majority of reasonable friendly people or the spirit of the town. I am only glad it wasn't a Waitrose - we would have had mass hysteria and faintings! Mungo Powney Address supplied A QUALITY retailer they might be, but the Marks & Spencer foodstore at the back of town, out of sight and for what will become out of mind for former Co-opers. Yes, Blandford is overdue some competitive shopping to include some of the 'chains' and big names apart from Tesco and Morrisons. And yes, better to have coffee/tea shops and charity shops than more boarded-up 'empties'. But surely I am not the only one that remembers we had TWO department stores selling all the usual items. We had in addition two bespoke tailors, maybe a little outmoded now, but folk still need to buy clothes with some

choice for all ages. We had five shoe shops, Clarks, good old Frisbies, and three independent shops. Ponds and Parkers for all household and kitchen wares, grocers and five butchers, all in the town. Oh, and three jewellers. So don't tell us, in a condescending do-gooding way, how wonderful it will be to have an M&S foodstore. We have never had the chance to find out if there is life outside the very competitive Lidl or Aldi. What a shambles Argos is now, since moving out of town, and a prime site with parking filled by a charity shop which is half-empty. Yes, many rely on charity shops, but we can no longer buy clothing in town with any choice. Maybe we have more coffee and tea shops in town than shops where we can buy things because we have to wait so long and make so many visits to collect our prescriptions. We can at least sit down and wait and drink some coffee while we do so. Go to Winton, with three hours' parking for ÂŁ1.20, and look at the choice of shops there, with free parking at Lidl. Wake up, go elsewhere, have a look around and see what is available. See why folk are going out of town to shop. And don't imagine for one minute this new store will bring in hoards of shoppers, unless they are ready-meal eaters. Elizabeth New, Barnes Homes, Blandford

August 2015

LETTERS

Letters extra From previous page I ENJOY shopping at Lidl for the simple reason the quality of their produce is hard to beat, not so smartly packaged as other stores but also products that are not available in our other local supermarkets either. But at the end of the day, driving to Gillingham or Poole does take the edge off a bit. The M & Co store stock some quite nice modern things at a reasonable quality and price, and Country Casuals tried but never received the custom promised. So let's not ask for the moon but choose wisely and support what we've got. I have a big question about the charity shops and the closure of Oxfam's book shop. Why do all our charity shops recycle the same sort of goods? Why not one doing baby wear, another menswear, another china and another books, instead of all offering a little bit of the same of everything? It would make better use of the store space and be more attractive to customers. I know of two young gentlemen who, with the closure of Oxfam, will not bother to explore all the other stores for the book they are looking for. I know we all support our own individual charities - as you all know, Cancer Research UK is mine, but we are not represented in Blandford. So why not put a contribution in a collection box instead of paying 50p for something you will never wear or use? This makes sense to me and is possibly good commercial practice too. Della Jones MBE Winterborne Zelston

A great show I HAVE just arrived home after an outstanding performance of Archie's War by Milldown Primary School. It was an audio play that the teachers and budding young actors/actresses adapted about the war, and a poppy was laid at the end for the 117 men who laid down their lives for their country from Blandford in the Great War of 1914-1918. It was a KS2 production of a 10year-old happy boy who had no idea war was just around the corner and that the effect would change his life forever. Truly amazed and impressed by the entire production. Nicola Byrne, Carter Close, Blandford

More letters: Page 24

Let's focus on the town's positives I WAS disappointed to read yet another negative letter about Blandford in June's Forum Focus. In the eight years we have lived here, we have found it to be a friendly, pleasant place to live. Like most towns these days, Blandford has its challenges and there's no doubt that more could be done to tackle some of its issues but it is hardly the filth-ridden Sodom & Gomorrah that a few people would have us believe. With many independent businesses and a thriving cafĂŠ

culture, Blandford has a lot going for it. The recent writer who declared that only Costa and Subway are open on a Sunday should take another look. Beatons, Reeves the Bakers, Cafe SoBa, The Forum, The Gorge and Cafe 65 all open on Sundays, too, surely something for every palate. Yes, there's room for improvement but let's focus on the many positives that Blandford has to offer. Annie Heritage, The Close, Blandford Forum

No help from dog owners I WAS understandably disgusted to get dog poo on my chin - and all over my favourite Rotary t-shirt while strimming the grassed picnic area in Angus Wood during a maintenance morning on the last Saturday in June. Most dog owners are responsible people. We have signs urging the many dog owners who use the wood as a dog toilet to pick up after their dogs. Sadly a few spoil it for the many and make a delightful spot in the wood an unsafe area for children and adults alike to relax in without the risk of being covered in dog poo. Interestingly, not a single dog walker has expressed an interest in helping at our monthly work mornings, or in becoming a Friend of Angus Wood for the princely sum of ÂŁ10 per year, which helps towards the cost of our public liability insurance.

The wood was left to the Woodland Trust by the Angus family. It was considered too small for the Woodland Trust to manage, and as a result was neglected. A local group consisting of the Blandford Town Museum, Blandford Rotary Club and, at the time, The Blandford School took a 25-year lease on the wood five years ago. Since then we have installed an all-weather path, planted hundreds of young trees and maintained the wood, including the entrance and railings, for the benefit of the local community. We are very grateful to our 'Friends', and all those who contribute to this effort. So please, dog owners, do your bit to make the wood a special place for everyone to enjoy - 'pick-up after your dog'. Nic Nicol, Wimborne Road, Blandford

Poor service from the chemist shops WITH reference to Councillor Tanner's letter in Forum Focus, I totally concur with the comments about the appalling state of dispensing of medication by the chemists in Blandford. There seems to be a total lack of organisation with staff running around not knowing if the prescription is ready or not. I always put my prescription in the system at the appropriate time, but then when I go to pick it up I

find it has not been prepared, and have to come back the next day to be told (quite abruptly) that I still have to wait. It is a service to the community and should be run in a more professional manner. Please get this sorted - the residents of Blandford do not ask for much and are generally very patient! Colin Sturmey, Hinton Close, Blandford.

August 2015 OSTCARDS sent by Frank Savage, who was born in July 1895 at Inkberrow in Worcestershire, were brought to Blandford Museum by his granddaughter.

A greetings card from Blandford Camp, addressed to his older sister Sophie and dated 27th December, describes how he got back safely and in good time, and had had a nice time in Reading, promising to write soon. The 'Right is Might' card bearing the Red Ensign of the Merchant Navy and French tri-colour, is dated 2nd August 1915, as is the 'Hope and Love' card addressed to his mother. Mr Savage survived the war and subsequently moved to Dorset where he worked for Burt and Vick in Poole. He and his wife Florence Louise had a daughter Betty, who was married in Poole in 1946 to Peter Coleman. They had three daughters who still live locally. Their grandfather died in North Dorset in 1979, aged 84.

August took a heavy toll on Dorset's sons AUGUST 1915 took a heavy toll, with many local men killed in Gallipoli. Research of the war memorials within a ten-mile radius of Blandford found 53 killed in Gallipoli alone, 30 of them - five from Blandford and the rest from the villages - meeting their deaths on 21st August, probably in the battle of Scimitar Hill. A few were from the Dorset Yeomanry, but most were from the 5th Dorsets, which had embarked for Gallipoli on 3rd July and landed at Suvla Bay on 6th August, engaging in various actions against the Turkish army, including the Battle of Sari Bair. Private Charley Littler was killed in action, aged 39, on 9th August in the attack on Scimitar Hill. He was born in Pimperne, son of carpenter Joseph and his wife Susan Littler, of Herstone Villa, Fairfield Road, Blandford, and had enlisted before 1911. His younger brother Cecil died as a prisoner-of-war in 1917. Brothers Tom and Walter Holloway both joined the 5th Battalion of the Dorsetshire Regiment in September 1914 and were killed in Gallipoli within four days of each other in August 2015 after being posted there in July. They were the sons of painter Ebenezer Joseph and Emily Holloway of 9 Charles Street, Blandford, and Tom worked as an ostler. Walter was killed on 17th August, and Tom, two years his senior, was killed in action during the attack on Scimitar Hill on 21st August, aged 27. Both are commemorated on the Basra Memorial in Iraq. Most of those who died on 21st August have no known grave and are commemorated on the Helles Memorial in Turkey, including Private James John Andrews, the son of labourer William and Louisa Andrews, of 27 Victoria Road, Blandford, posted to the Balkans on 11th

July 1915 and killed in action, aged 18. Cecil Tom Ford, 18, had been promoted to Lance-Corporal in December 1914 after enlisting in August, and was posted to Gallipoli on 1st July 1915. The son of taxidermist Sidney and Kate Ford, of Tudor House, Oakfield Street, Blandford, he had worked as a clerk. His brother Sidney was killed in 1917. Justus Watts George, 24, was a Corporal in 1/1st Battalion, Queen's Own Dorset Yeomanry, who had farmed at Efford House Farm in Lymington, Hampshire, but was born in Blandford, the son of grocer Thomas and Louisa Ann Maria George, of The Laurels, Park Road, Blandford. His elder brother, Stanley, was killed in 1918. Private John Dennis Riggs, son of John and Frannie Riggs, of Tollard Royal and husband of Alice R Riggs, of Hillside, Manswood, Wimborne, enlisted in the Dorset Yeomanry in Shaftesbury and died, aged 27.

The Helles Memorial in Turkey, where so many Blandford men are remembered.

William Broomfield served with the 1st Dorset Yeomanry and died aged 20. His mother, Emma Jane Broomfield, died four years later in January 1919 and is buried at Melcombe Bingham. 2nd Lieutenant William Bartlett served with the 8th Battalion of the Hampshires. He was born in 1895 at Durweston, the son of William, a farmer born at Bryanston in 1857, and Frances, of Closworth. The 1901 and 1911 censuses show William as living at Knighton Farm House in Durweston. Private Frederick George Pitman of the 5th Dorsets was killed in action on 22nd August. The

son of labourer Charles and Bessie Pitman, of 36 Bryanston Street, Blandford, he was in 1911 working as a barman in Shaftesbury, and enlisted in 1914 to be posted to the Balkans on 11th July 1915. Private Arthur Prince of the 5th Dorsets, died on the hospital ship Alaunia on 30th August and was buried at sea after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head ten days earlier. The 28-year-old son of groom William and Mary Prince, of Hardy's Yard, East Street, Blandford, he had married Agnes Virtue Guy in Blandford in 1911, and they lived at Stour Row, Shaftesbury, with a son and daughter.

ANYONE who would like to share with our readers pictures and details of events relating to relatives who played a part in World War One is invited to contact Forum Focus by calling 01258 459346, emailing editor@forumfocus.co.uk or writing to 18 Tudor Gardens, Blandford DT11 7PL. Forum Focus would like to thank the Blandford 14-18 Group for their help in researching this material.

August 2015

SCHOOLS

21 REPAIRS to a section of wall of the Woodhouse Gardens in Blandford are costing up to £4,000 on top of repairs to another section of the wall costing over £2,200 in 2014. Councillors were warned that if similar repair to the back wall became necessary the cost could be in the region of £20,000.

Archbishop Wake Primary School pupils and the Clare College Choir in the world premiere of 'To Those Heroes'.

Schools join choir in Gallipoli tribute THE Choir of Clare College Cambridge and pupils of nine Blandford schools presented a moving tribute in Blandford Parish Church to the artists and poets who fought at Gallipoli in June 1915. The concert and presentation, in support of the church's Cupola Project, was part of the Heritage Lottery funded Gallipoli Music Memorial, a series of events nationwide conceived by Nick Peacey, great-nephew of William Dennis Browne, and the director of music at Clare College, Graham Ross. Browne had, with the encouragement of Patrick Shaw Stewart and together with poet Rupert Brooke, artist Frederick Kelly and other creative artists, joined the Hood Battalion which was part of the Royal Naval Division. The Hood ensign hangs in the Parish Church. Their story and legacy were told in more than 20 choral works, readings and drama and ballet performances based on letters, diaries, poems and speeches. Pupils from Archbishop Wake Primary School acted the story of diarist Ordinary Seaman Joe Murray and performed with the choir in the world premiere of Graham Ross' setting to music, 'To Those Heroes', of the speech of reconciliation years later of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the leader of the opposing Turks. Pupils from Durweston Primary School joined those of Bryanston School to tell the story of Frederick Kelly and perform his 'Elegy for Strings: in memoriam Rupert Brooke'. Students of The Blandford School gave a dance interpretation of Browne's poem The Island of Lost Dreams, and pupils of The Milldown, Blandford St Mary, Spetisbury, Downlands and Pimperne Primary Schools all presented contributions. Perhaps the most moving readings came from Nick Peacey and Gill Willoughby, great niece of William Denis Browne, in correspondence between Patrick Shaw-Stewart and Browne's mother who expressed her forgiveness. OUR apologies to Debbie Broadhurst, whom we described as a teacher at Durweston School when, in fact, she is the mother of two of its pupils, and an Ofsted registered childminder, graded outstanding in 2013. Based in Durweston, she is a provider of afterschool care for many of the children attending the school. She raised over £790 on the London Moonwalk in May for Breast Cancer Research in the year she reached her 40th birthday in memory of her mum, who was in her early 40s, not 50s, when she died in 1998.

SCHOOLS

August 2015

An artistic honour for Clayesmore

Knighton House girls celebrate Common Entrance exam success.

Exam full marks for Knighton girls YEAR 8 girls at Knighton House School achieved a fantastic set of Common Entrance results, all winning a first-choice place and half achieving scholarships at senior schools, including Canford, Bryanston, St Mary's Shaftesbury, Sherborne Girls and Prior's Field. Headmistress Sarah Wicks congratulated them and their dedicated staff and parents, saying: "We are thrilled with the consistently high success level of our year 8 girls which is achieved without pressure or stress. We wish them every success in their future and look forward to celebrating with their families in the busy few weeks before term ends." Pupils from Knighton House took part in the Portman Hunt Pony Club annual open show with great success. Three members of one family took part, and Sophie

Slight on Quinn won her class of 2'6" Working Hunter, qualifying for the Portman Working Hunter Championship, where she came Reserve Champion and the second Knighton House winner in three years. Sister Phoebe, riding Harvey, also took part in the Working Hunter 2'6" and came second, and their six-year-old brother Ned, riding GP, took part in his first pony club show and won a rosette for dressage. Oria Lockwood on Frank won her dressage class, and Issy Lockwood on Hucklebury won first for best coloured horse or pony. Knighton House also took part in the Dorset InterSchools Equestrian Games held at Bryanston School's equestrian centre and was the only school to field three teams. With many clear rounds the girls did very well with one of the teams coming sixth.

ARTWORK by Year 7 pupils at Clayesmore Prep has been on display in the National Gallery in London as part of its annual 'Take One Picture' event, encouraging primary schools across the UK to take artistic inspiration from one of its paintings. This year's theme was BartolomĂŠ Berjemo's 'Saint Michael triumphant over the devil'. Clayesmore Prep used this picture as a focus for all kinds of activity during their Arts Week last summer, including a visit to Salisbury Cathedral, making medieval music, studying silk manufacture, performing saintly dramatic work and concocting natural remedies. A huge amount of exciting artwork was generated during the week and at the beginning of the year, two representatives from the National Gallery visited Clayesmore to see it. They told Head of Prep Mr Dunlop, that they had never seen such a high standard of art teaching in a school, and actually altered the themes of the exhibition to fit the ideas that had been developed at the school. Clayesmore Prep was then chosen as one of the few schools to have work shown in the 'Take One Picture' exhibition. After visiting the gallery to see the work on display, one pupil described the experience saying: "I was really proud to see my work in the gallery and it has inspired me to do more." Mr Dunlop said: "It is a great honour for the school to have been selected to play so prominent a part in the exhibition. Congratulations to the children on their achievement and to Head of Art, Mrs Ritchie, for her leadership."

August 2015

Stunning setting for festival opener THE Wessex Festival 2015 in the second week of August is an eclectic mix of concerts, choral church services, a folk night and two rambles. The opening concert, English Serenade, on Thursday 13th August, is in the perfect setting of St Martin's Church at Bryanston School, with views of the river Stour and open countryside. The concert will be preceded by a reception outside the church at 6.45pm and a peal of bells, and will feature Vaughan Williams' masterpiece The Lark Ascending - voted the most popular piece of classical music in the 2014 POLICE have warned residents to keep an eye on their pets after an incident near Blandford Hospital of a cat being shot with an air rifle. Anyone who saw anything suspicious on 26th June or knows who may have been responsible is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 25:0127.

Classic FM Hall of Fame. Soloist Christina Scott is a regular Festival performer and head of strings at Bryanston School. There will also be three choral items by Vaughan Williams sung by the Festival's three choirs. On the following night the Festival makes its first visit to Blandford's Georgian Parish Church for its first ever concert by a string quartet. An enticing programme has been drawn up by the Brunel String Quartet and the Festival Director of works by Haydn, Warlock, Karl Jenkins and Vaughan Williams, together with a rare performance of Finzi's By Footpath and Stile, a song cycle of six poems by Thomas Hardy, in which the quartet is joined by baritone Gareth Jones. For information and tickets see thewessexfestival.co.uk or call Festival administrator Bob Reeve on 01202 890827.

Advertisement feature

Stretch your child's imagination in three directions at once in Blandford

Stagecoach Shaftesbury pupils on stage at Her Majesty's in the West End ere's a way to spend Saturday afternoons during term time that'll have 6-18 year-olds buzzing. Enrol them at Blandford Stagecoach Theatre Arts School where they learn to act, sing and dance. Stagecoach Blandford starts in September 2015. The skills they learn aren't just for the stage. They develop confidence, self-reliance and self-esteem. A Stagecoach training is for life. You'll see new sides to your son or daughter you want to applaud. There's no interview or audition. Enthusiasm is all they need. They get a two week trial period at start of term to settle in and make friends.

A summer week when more than the sun will shine Blandford Stagecoach will also be running 5-day Summer Workshop from August 17th - 21st at Archbishop Wake School, Blandford (8 - 18s). On Monday students will be caught up in a stimulating week of fun and hard work, in peers groups, leading to a final performance to friends and parents on Friday early evening. They will learn lines, songs and dance routines and there will be plenty for everyone to do, whether experienced or new to all this. We are enrolling now for Summer School. (Limited places available). To find out more about your local Stagecoach School in Blandford and receive a prospectus and application form ring Di, The Principal, on 01305 777308 or enrol on the website www.stagecoach.co.uk/Blandford. Email Di on Blandford@stagecoach.co.uk or Shaftesbury@stagecoach.co.uk

Pimperne Pre-School children at their sponsored sport day and mini Race for Life for Cancer Research UK.

Small school's big result MORE than ÂŁ400 has been raised for Cancer Research UK by the tiny Pimperne Pre-School with a number of fundraising events. On 21st June all members of staff took part in the Race for Life event in Poole, and followed it up with a sponsored sports day and mini 'Race for Life' for the children, who took part in many activities. Ice-creams were sold to raise money, followed by a picnic on the field. Sponsorship and fund-raising eventually totalled ÂŁ425. Play leader Claire Sully said: "It's a great result for such a small preschool." Anyone interested in registering their child at Pimperne can call the pre-school on 07909 582912.

Industry honour for sprayer John JOHN Martin of Milborne St Andrew was named as Syngenta Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year in the national final of the competition held at the International Sprays and Sprayers Event alongside Cereals 205 at Boothby Graffoe, near Lincoln.

August 2015

Letters extra Show some pride I SHAKE my head at the appalling state of the road surfaces, and the layout to slow the traffic down going through the town. Who in their right mind designed such a layout? At most times of the day you have to queue to get through town. We had a bypass put around Blandford to get rid of the congestion and then installed a system to cause hold-ups in town.

I love my town but despair at the state it has got into. Reference the colour of the frontages of some of the shops, we need to brighten up the centre of the town. It is tired and drab. Come on, Blandford people, let's get our town back to how it should be so we can be proud to show other people our lovely location in North Dorset. Colin Sturmey Long-time resident of Blandford

Natural worries AFTER a recent walk on Hambledon Hill I can understand why our bees and insects are disappearing. A few small meadows could be seen with buttercups growing, but for many miles every field was plain green, not a flower to be seen. Hedges are also cut low quite unnecessarily in many places. I cannot understand why farmers feel the need to do this when it's a matter of field division. Several of the bushes and plants along side the track to the top of the hill were dying as if weed killer had been sprayed on them. It is a very worrying situation. Helen Rawles, Blandford St. Mary

Vanessa Conyers, who will be holding an open week at her studio in Greyhound Yard this month, was one of the exhibitors at a Ceramic and Craft Fair staged in the Corn Exchange on 10th July in association with the Farmers Market in the Market Place. BFBS Forces Radio were in attendance to broadcast to those living on Blandford Camp, and a hamper of produce from the farmers was one of the items raffled. Goods available included paintings, ceramics, photography, glass design and pottery. Helen Cooper of the Corn Exchange Challenge said: "We hope it will build people's expectations of the indoor market and that we can organise another ceramics fair in the spring."

August 2015

SCHOOLS

August 2015

Author's words of praise for young writers AWARD-winning children's author Ali Sparkes hosted an exciting book launch at Clayesmore Prep School, not for one of her own all-action novels but for an anthology written by Year 5 and 6 pupils. The collection of poetry, prose and colour illustrations, entitled 'Then and Now', features a mix of written and artistic work with poems, prose, stories and artwork guided by the school's Head of Prep Art Caroline Ritchie. Ali Sparkes, author of the popular Shapeshifter series of books, became Clayesmore Prep's Patron of Reading last autumn to raise the profile of reading for pleasure among pupils, parents and staff. She has visited the school a number of times to present entertaining workshops and encourage the children to get reading and writing. Her most recent workshop focused on PR and publicity, which came in handy when the children wanted to tell the world about their creative venture. She also wrote an entertaining

foreword for the book with her own humorous take on the 'then and now' of becoming Clayesmore Prep's Patron of Reading. At the launch, attended by par-

ents and guests, she spoke on her work and life, before reading excerpts from the book alongside some of the pupil authors. Head of Prep English Suzanne

Chinnock said: "The sheer quality of the book took a lot of people by surprise, but what impressed people most was the high standard and maturity of the writing and illustrations."

Year 5 and 6 pupils at Clayesmore Prep with their book 'Then and Now' and author Ali Sparkes who is Clayesmore's Patron of Reading.

SPORT

August 2015

School footballers get a kick from ex England star's visit FORMER Southampton and England striker James Beattie visited The Blandford School and its third generation artificial grass pitch on his first engagement as a Football Foundation's ambassador as part of the Foundation's 15-year anniversary celebrations. James, who has just been appointed first-team coach with Premier League Swansea City, took part in a series of training drills with pupils on the playing surface developed with investment from the Foundation's Funding Partners. The striker, who also had spells with Everton, Sheffield United, Stoke City and Rangers before becoming Accrington Stanley manager, offered invaluable encouragement and advice to the school's young footballers, watched by representatives from the Dorset County FA. He took part in a question and answer session with the school's 700 pupils and signed autographs for his audience before assembling for an all-school photo next to the pitch. He said: "I've always been a huge supporter of the grassroots game,

so when the opportunity arose to become a Football Foundation Ambassador I was delighted to accept. The Foundation have done a wonderful job over the last 15 years of improving football facilities at the lowest levels of the game - long may that continue. "What I've seen here today at The Blandford School is inspiring young people wanting to play and learn about the game. "You know that when the Football Foundation, with the help of the Dorset FA in this case, builds a facility it is doing so in an area that needs it most and the Foundation makes sure that the pitch is being used day-in and day-out, not just by the school for its PE lessons, but for local grassroots teams and even as a coaching hub for two Premier League teams, AFC Bournemouth and Arsenal." Sally Wilson, headteacher at The Blandford School, said: "It was a magnificent day for everyone connected with the school and a privilege to host James Beattie's visit here on the same day he was unveiled as a Football Foundation Ambassador."

James Beattie with the pupils and staff on the new artificial pitch at The Blandford School.

Joan Bartlett and Des Maguire, winners of the annual mixed competition Colin Brown Trophy at Ashley Wood.

Aces all round at Ashley Wood THERE was great excitement at Ashley Wood Golf Club when one of their lady members, Frances Finney, scored a hole in one on the seventh. The recently held Mixed Open at Ashley Wood was a great success, with 22 teams battling it out to find a winner. The successful pair were John Campbell and Geraldine Brickell of Ferndown and Dudsbury respectively, with 36 points. Runners-up were Chris and Sally Bruce, of Dorset Golf and Country Club, with 35 points. The Seniors and Ladies held their annual mixed competition for the Colin Brown Trophy with only a small field this year, but a fun time was had by all. The winners were Joan Bartlett and Des Maguire with 37 points.

Doddlers on their marks for annual road races THE Dorset Doddlers are geared up ready to stage their annual road races on Sunday 2nd August and look forward to receiving, as ever, the wonderful support of the residents of Sturminster Newton and surrounding area. The Stur Half, sponsored by local businesses, takes runners, aged 17 and over, through 13.1 miles of scenic North Dorset countryside. It starts at 10.30am in Station Road and finishes on the High School playing field. The 5k race also starts at 10.30am from Station Road and offers runners of all abilities (13 years and over), a 'taster' of the Stur Half on an equally attractive course. Entries before the day can be made using entry forms on the Stur Half website, or by 10am on the day at Race HQ in the High School. All entries for the 5k are available on the day. For those not running or supporting along the routes, there will be refreshments and fun activities on the school playing field, with ice-cream, children's races, beer tent and pre/post sports massage. For more information on both races and the whole event, see sturhalf.co.uk or phone race director, Craig Dixon, on 07734 204984.

August 2015

Forum Focus - forthcoming meetings & events AUGUST Saturday 1st August: Castleman House summer fete, with cream teas, Pimm's, stalls and raffle, 1-4pm Tarrant Monkton & Launceston Flower & Produce Show Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August: Open Gardens for the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital, 2 Galpin Cottages, Tarrant Keyneston, 1-6pm Sunday 2nd August: Teddy20 skydive for childhood cancer charities Dorset Doddlers Stur Half Marathon, 10.30am from Sturminster Newton High School Afternoon tea at Spetisbury village hall in support of SpetisburyLe Vast Twinning Association, 2.30-5.30pm Book launch and signing with Eve Bonham, Beatons Tearooms, Market Place, Blandford, 4pm Wednesday 5th August: Bus2Go trip to Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary and Otter Nurseries, details 01258 837749 or bus2godorset.org Open Garden, The Springhead Trust, Fontmell Magna, 10am5pm, assisted wheelchair access, dogs on leads welcome, and practical tutorial, Planning a Successful Watercolour, with Rob Adams, 1.30-4.30pm, details 01747 811853 Thursday 6th August: Blandford Town Home Watch, Blandford Police Station, 7pm Blandford Museum First Thursday talk Jane Ellis-Schon: 'Finding Pitt Rivers', 7pm for 7.30 Saturday 8th August: Country Fayre and Vehicle Rally for RNLI, Spetisbury Manor, Spetisbury, 11am-5pm Farnham Street Fair from 1.30pm. Stalls, teas, etc Wessex branch of Western Front Association meets 2 for 2.30pm Pimperne village hall, talk by Dr Simon House on The Ardennes Campaign, contact 01929 553060 Monday 10th August: Consultation on Dorset Waste Plan and proposals for new Blandford waste management centre, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 3-7pm Tuesday 11th August: Open evening, Treads youth charity, Bere's Yard, Blandford, from 7pm Wednesday 12th August: Bus2Go trip to Somerset Lavender Farm, details 01258 837749 or bus2godorset.org Thursday 13th to Sunday 16h August: Wessex Music Festival, see thewessexfestival.co.uk Friday 14th August: Blandford

Entries in this diary are free of charge. If you have an event you would like included, please send details to Nicci Brown, 01258 459346 or email s.n.b@btinternet.com. This page is available and regularly updated on our website at www.forumfocus.co.uk

Best in show winner Poppy Marshall with Lions' president Genevieve Corben.

Family's bake-off success A CHARITY bake-off took place at Blandford Bowls Club, raising ÂŁ150 for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. The categories at the Blandford and District Lions' event included pies and tarts, cakes, gluten-free and scones. Poppy Marshall baked beautifully to be rewarded with best in show and winning her gluten-free category, and her sister Lilly won the children's category. It was quite a family affair as their grandmother Margaret Selby's pies and tarts also produced a winning result. Mandy Powell baked the best cakes and Pat Griffin concluded the category winners with her scones. In a separate men's category, Tony Ives impressed the most with his Victoria sponge. The club would like to thank the Blandford Bowls Club and Blandford Tesco store for their generosity towards the event. Farmers Market, 9am-1pm, Market Place Saturday 15th August: Cats Protection coffee morning and stalls, Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion, Blandford 10am12.30pm Shillingstone Railway Project open day, Shillingstone Station,

11am-2pm VJ Day Commemoration, Blandford Royal British Legion, 2pm Garden Fete, Blandford Grange, 2-4.30pm with the Stour Valley Band and bouncy castle Dorset Wildlife Trust bat walk along the Jubilee Trail in Ansty

led by local bat expert, Chris Dieck: meet 8.45pm outside the Fox Inn, Ansty (DT2 7PN). The trail can be muddy and uneven so please wear suitable shoes/boots Sunday 16th August: Blandford St Mary Anniversary Horticultural, Craft Show and Fete and fun dog show, 1pm, The Manor House, Blandford St Mary Monday 17th August: Blandford Blind Club meets Williams Opportunity Hall, 2-4pm, music with Wimborne Voices Wednesday 19th August: Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show, Motcombe Turnpike Showground Blandford Carers meet Durweston village hall 2 to 4pm Blandford & District Civic Society guided Perimeter Walk, meet Eagle House Gardens car park, 7pm, details 01258 459346 Thursday 20th August: Blandford Rural Home Watch, Okeford Fitzpaine Sports Pavilion, 10.30am Blandford Art Society meets Pimperne Village Hall at 2pm. 'An Acrylic Workshop with a Coastal Theme', Details from Tina Rowley 03330 112174 Friday 21st August: Bus2Go trip to Summer Dreamin' at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, call 01258 837749 or see bus2godorset.org Saturday 22nd August: Iwerne Minster annual summer show, Parish Field from 2.30pm Summer Evening Singing Recital with Bryony Purdue and David Le Prevost, Tithe Barn, Home Farm House, 7.30pm, proceeds to the Village Club Building Fund. Details Sue Le Prevost (812173) Sunday 23rd August: Bus2Go trip to Buckham Fair, details 01258 837749 or bus2godorset.org Monday 24th to Saturday 29th August: Blandford Art Society Open Exhibition, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 10am-5pm Monday to Friday and 10am-4pm Saturday Wednesday 26th to Friday 28th August: Performing Arts Academy Performance Boot Camp, Blandford School, 9.30am-3.30pm, details 07920 755791 Thursday 27th August: Ribboncraft workshop, Blandford Fashion Museum, 10am-1pm, to book call 01258 453006 Friday 28th August: Last Friday Museum Regeneration Event, social evening in the Victorian Garden, drinks and nibbles from 4.30pm, all welcome